Crane Signs Contract with San Jose

COLUMBUS, Ohio –Chris Crane, a junior forward on the Ohio State men’s hockey team, has signed an entry-level contract with the NHL’s San Jose Sharks, forfeiting his final year of eligibility. Crane was selected by the Sharks in the seventh round of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft (No. 200).

“This is a great opportunity for Chris,” Mark Osiecki, Ohio State head coach, said. “He has come a long way and matured, both on and off the ice. We are happy as a staff both for him and our program.”

Crane will join the AHL Worcester Sharks this week.

“I’d like to thank everyone at Ohio State, especially my coaches and teammates,” Crane, a native of West Chester, Ohio, said. “Without them, this opportunity wouldn’t be possible. I’m a Buckeye for life. I’m excited to begin my professional career, but at the same time it’s bittersweet to leave Ohio State and home.”

A native of West Chester, Ohio, Crane played in 108 games as a Buckeye and had 24 goals, 19 assists and 43 points. He shared the team scoring lead in 2011-12 with 24 points, posting 14 goals and 10 assists, and had a 6-3-9 line in 39 games played in 2012-13 as the squad reached the CCHA tournament semifinals. He is a three-time Ohio State Scholar-Athlete and an Academic All-Big Ten selection.